Child's play for Manchester United star Rafael

I feel more experienced and like I am growing as a player and a person

Rafael Da Silva

The Brazilian right-back was just 18 when he made his United debut in 2008.

However, boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes the Samba kid has finally put a lid on the impetuous streak that often stained his early years at Old Trafford.

Rafael was sent off in a quarter­-final clash with ­Bayern Munich in 2010 that led to their Champions League exit.

But Ferguson thinks the 22-year-old has finally grown up and thinks he can go on to have a similar impact at United to ­legendary defender Gary Neville. ­Rafael feels his career has clicked into gear in 2012, despite being without twin brother Fabio for the first time after he joined QPR on loan.

He said: “It’s been a great year for me. I feel like I have grown up a lot and that I am maturing.

“My daughter was born this year, which has helped me a lot, too.

“And on the pitch, I have been able to play a lot of games. So I’ve had a lot of good moments, not just in football but in life this year.

“Playing games week in, week out helps you feel more comfortable and confident on the pitch and I’m pleased I’ve been able to do that this season.

“I feel more experienced and like I am growing as a player and a person. I was only 18 when I first came here, I was just a boy.

“Some people may think I am still young and still a boy, but now I feel I’m a man.”

Rafael has already got his hands on two Premier League winners’ medals – but believes there will be plenty more silverware to come this season.

He said: “My target for 2013 is like every player: we want to win trophies.

“When you’re at this club that has to be your focus. We all want to win and I want to play as many games as I can and be consistent in my performances.

“When you get into January you know the really important time in the season is not far away and there will be big game after big game.

“Every game is important, but after Christmas they ­become massive. Hopefully we can do well.”